QE2 farewell voyages sell out

The farewell voyages of the QE2 have been swamped by demand, with five of its final cruises completely selling out just days after going on sale.

Such has been the demand from customers wanting to experience the iconic ship that its last sailing, from Southampton to Dubai on November 11 next year sold out in just 36 minutes. The ship will end its days in Dubai as a luxury floating hotel.

The QE2's two final transatlantic crossings, a voyage round Britain and its last Mediterranean sailing are also fully booked.

Reading-based cruise agency Sovereign Cruise Club said interest had been phenomenal since Cunard announced the ship would retire in November 2008.

"Demand has gone through the roof," said managing director Stefan Shillito.

"We are getting a lot of bookings from people who have never cruised before. It is like the Concorde effect. That was a travel icon and the QE2 is the same ilk and people want to experience it."

Cunard managing director Carol Marlow said she had been surprised by the sheer volume of bookings, but pointed out there was still space on other QE2 voyages later this year and in 2008.

A 16-night Mediterranean cruise departing from Southampton on May 5 still has availability, with prices from £1,449 to £6,069, while a one-week cruise to the Norwegian fjords on June 25 next year costs between £799 and £4,639.

The rise in demand has meant that prices are rising. Stefan Shillito estimates that rates have already risen by £100 per passenger, although this isn't putting passengers off. "People aren't concerned. They just want to get on her for one last time".